Inbetweeners Star James Buckley Opens Up About Post-Show Career Struggles
James Buckley, the actor best known for playing Jay Cartwright in the hit E4 sitcom The Inbetweeners, has candidly revealed he has struggled to find a clear goal since the series concluded nearly a decade ago. In a new interview, the 38-year-old confessed he felt semi-retired after the show wrapped with its second film in 2014, fearing his acting career might be over.
Searching for Purpose After Inbetweeners Success
Buckley described The Inbetweeners as his first love in acting, but admitted he now lacks direction. I don't really have a goal anymore, which I generally think is quite a dangerous thing, he said. I do think you need something in your life to work towards. And I'm struggling, personally, to find out what that is. Despite this, he has kept busy with various projects, including becoming the highest-earning star on the video message platform Cameo, presenting a podcast, and running a YouTube channel with his wife Clair.
Uncomfortable with Fame and Future Prospects
The actor expressed discomfort with the fame that came from the show's crude humour, noting, Getting statues for vomiting over each other or jumping up and down on a car, it's not necessary. When you're an actor, you're just turning up and mucking about. Regarding a potential Inbetweeners reboot, Buckley confirmed he hasn't been approached to revive his character, but believes the show's style of comedy is needed today. I think the temperature at the moment is that people would like an Inbetweeners. It would release some sort of pressure, he explained, advocating for keeping the silly, disgusting humour.
Reboot Plans and Cast Reunion Hopes
In October, creators Iain Morris and Damon Beesley announced plans to bring back the iconic characters after signing a deal with production giant Banijay UK. The project could involve a new TV series, film, or stage adaptation. Patrick Holland, Banijay's chief executive, expressed delight at exploring the future of the brand, aiming to resonate with both old and new audiences. Co-star Joe Thomas has indicated the cast remains close and would jump at the chance to reunite, with Emily Atack also tipped to return as Charlotte Hinchcliffe.
If the reboot proceeds, it would mark the first full cast reunion in over a decade, offering a potential new chapter for Buckley and his colleagues as they navigate their post-Inbetweeners careers.
